The still poorly understood effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs) on plants—are we heading for a perfect storm?

The pervasive use of mobile devices is commonly perceived as safe by both the general public and policy makers. However, it exposes all life forms to constant radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMFs). While precautionary measures have been taken to limit exposure to RF-EMFs, these measures are primarily based on research focused on humans and largely neglect the potential risks to other life forms.

Plants are essential to the functioning of Earth’s ecosystems and the security of global food supplies. However, research on the effects of RF-EMFs on plant biology and development is notably lacking. The few studies available point to a rather worrisome picture, indicating that RF-EMFs can have numerous adverse effects on plants, including altered metabolism, inhibited growth, and development of abnormalities. Our research has recently identified a previously unidentified suppression of plants' stress response caused by RF-EMFs, which could potentially aggravate the effects of stress on plants.

This discovery is particularly significant given the two parallel trends shaping our world today: the increasing frequency of extreme weather events caused by climate change, and the rapid development of wireless communications driven by advances in technology. Together, these two factors have the potential to create a perfect storm that could wreak havoc on our ecosystem and our food security.

In this work, I aim to provide a concise summary of what we know about the effects of RF-EMFs on plants and to suggest several approaches to mitigate this still poorly understood risk.